Manila: The Philippine political landscape is once again in turmoil following a shocking announcement by the country’s Ombudsman that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant against Ronald Dela Rosa, a former national police chief and close ally of ex-President Rodrigo Duterte. The announcement, if confirmed, could mark a significant escalation in accountability efforts related to the Duterte-era “war on drugs,” which has long been criticized for alleged human rights violations.
According to Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla, the warrant targets Dela Rosa in connection with alleged crimes committed during Duterte’s presidency (2016–2022) and during his tenure as mayor of Davao City. The announcement claimed that the ICC had relayed the warrant to the Philippine Department of Justice. However, in a contradictory statement, an ICC spokesperson denied that any such warrant had been publicly issued, emphasizing that official updates only come through ICC press releases. The Philippine DOJ also confirmed that it had not yet received any official document regarding the warrant and was in the process of verifying the claim.
Dela Rosa, who led the Philippine National Police during much of Duterte’s anti-drug campaign, is one of the most high-profile figures associated with the controversial operations that reportedly resulted in thousands of extrajudicial killings. The announcement underscores the ongoing international scrutiny of the Philippines’ human rights record, despite the country formally withdrawing from the Rome Statute in 2019. The ICC maintains that it retains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed when the Philippines was still a member.
The legal and political implications of the announcement are substantial. If the warrant is authentic, Dela Rosa could face arrest and extradition procedures, potentially shaking political alliances in Manila. As a sitting senator and influential political figure, his legal jeopardy could reverberate across the ruling coalition and affect Duterte-era allies currently holding office. Additionally, international attention on the matter could impact the Philippines’ image regarding governance, rule of law, and human rights practices, influencing diplomatic relations and foreign investment.
The announcement also reignites discussions around Duterte himself. The ICC had previously issued a warrant against the former president in March 2025, accusing him of crimes against humanity linked to the anti-drug operations. Earlier this year, ICC judges rejected Duterte’s challenge to the court’s jurisdiction, affirming the court’s legal authority despite the country’s withdrawal. The potential targeting of Dela Rosa suggests that ICC scrutiny may now be widening beyond Duterte, targeting other officials implicated in the campaign.
For victims’ families, the development is a mixed source of hope and uncertainty. While the ICC’s involvement signals a possibility of accountability, the lack of clarity regarding the warrant fuels concerns about the slow pace of justice and the political maneuvering surrounding high-profile cases. The Philippine government is now under pressure to clarify its stance and respond appropriately once verification is complete.
As the situation develops, political observers warn that the coming days will be critical. The ICC’s official position, the DOJ’s verification process, and domestic political reactions will determine whether this announcement leads to concrete legal action or remains a controversial and contested claim. Either outcome has the potential to reshape the political and legal landscape of the Philippines, highlighting the enduring tensions between governance, accountability, and human rights in the post-Duterte era.